Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are essential pieces of safety gear for all water-related activities. They come in various forms, from life jackets to belts and even floats, designed to help keep individuals afloat and safe in the water. Regardless of whether you’re an avid swimmer or simply enjoy spending time near water, investing in a high-quality PFD is crucial for your safety.
PFDs not only provide buoyancy, but they also offer thermal protection and can help you be seen more easily by others in the water. In recent years, advancements in materials and technology have led to the development of PFDs that are both comfortable and efficient, ensuring that you’ll be well-protected in any situation.
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When choosing a personal flotation device, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of activity you’ll be participating in, the fit, buoyancy level, and any additional features. For instance, kayakers or anglers may prefer a PFD with added storage compartments, while others may prioritize ease of movement or a sleek design. It’s also vital to ensure that the PFD you select meets the necessary safety standards and, if possible, choose a model that has been tested and approved by reputable organizations.
To help you make the right decision, we’ve researched and tested a wide range of personal flotation devices to identify the best options for various activities and needs. Let us guide you through our top picks, ensuring you can enjoy your time on or near the water with confidence and peace of mind.
Best Personal Flotation Devices
We have compiled a list of the best personal flotation devices to ensure your safety and comfort in the water. Dive into our selection and find the perfect fit for your aquatic adventures.
Seachoice Life Vest, Type II Personal Flotation Device
The Seachoice Life Vest is an affordable and reliable option for anyone looking to purchase a personal flotation device for added safety on the water.
Pros
- USCG Approved Type II PFD
- Bright orange color for enhanced visibility
- Fits adults with 40 to 60-inch chest (90 pounds and up)
Cons
- Size may be too snug for some individuals
- Bulky compared to inflatable alternatives
- Not as comfortable as other life vests
After trying out the Seachoice Life Vest, we found that it offers effective buoyancy and safety features. As a USCG approved Type II PFD, this life vest serves its purpose in providing personal flotation for adults weighing 90 pounds and up. The bright orange color also adds to its visibility, ensuring that you can easily be seen while in the water.
However, we did notice some drawbacks. The first being the size. Although it’s designed for adults with a 40 to 60-inch chest, some of us found the fit to be too snug. Additionally, the vest can feel bulky, especially in comparison to inflatable life vests. This may not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it’s still worth considering depending on your preferences.
Despite the sizing issue and bulkiness, the Seachoice Life Vest still manages to perform well as a PFD. While it may not be the most comfortable option on the market, this life vest certainly gets the job done and provides an affordable alternative to pricier PFDs. Its durability, along with the enhanced visibility offered by its color, makes it a suitable choice for a range of water-related activities.
In conclusion, the Seachoice Life Vest is a reliable personal flotation device that serves its purpose effectively. Although it may not be the most comfortable or streamlined option available, it is undoubtedly an affordable and dependable choice worth considering for anyone in need of a PFD.
Stohlquist Edge Personal Flotation Device Mango
We highly recommend the Stohlquist Edge Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for its excellent fit, functionality, and reasonable price.
Pros
- Ergonomic wrapture shaped torso design
- Adjustable shoulders and side pulls for a customized fit
- Low-cut, offset front-zip entry for easy re-entry and exit
Cons
- May not suit every body shape or size
- No free return shipping (in some cases)
- Limited storage options
The Stohlquist Edge PFD has an ergonomic wrapture shaped torso design that ensures a comfortable and secure fit. We recently wore this PFD on a kayaking trip, and the adjustable shoulders, four side pulls, and front waist buckle closure allowed us to easily achieve the right fit that didn’t interfere with our movements while paddling.
The low-cut, offset front-zip entry makes it easy to take the PFD on and off while facilitating re-entry and exit from your kayak. We found this especially helpful when we needed to make quick stops on the water.
While the Stohlquist Edge PFD generally worked for us, some reviewers mentioned that it wasn’t the most suitable option for their body shape or size. Sizing could be a limitation for some individuals, so it’s essential to check the measurements and fit before purchasing.
One of the drawbacks we noted was the lack of free return shipping in some cases. This may be a concern for those who encounter sizing or fitting issues. While the storage options on this PFD were sufficient for our needs, those looking for more storage compartments may find it limited in this aspect.
In conclusion, the Stohlquist Edge Personal Flotation Device is a well-designed and comfortable PFD that effectively balances its pros and cons. For kayakers seeking a reliable and functional PFD, this is an excellent choice.
Leader Accessories Adult Universal USCG Approved Vest Green Medium
A dependable and comfortable choice for water sports enthusiasts, this USCG approved vest offers a secure fit and practical features.
Pros
- US Coast Guard approved for safety
- Comfortable nylon and foam materials
- Includes whistle and interior pocket for convenience
Cons
- Buckles may be difficult to fasten for some users
- Concealed-type back straps might not appeal to everyone
- Sizing might require extra attention for a proper fit
We recently tried the Leader Accessories Adult Universal USCG Approved Vest Green Medium in various water sports activities, and we noticed that it was both reliable and comfortable. The 200D x 118T nylon Oxford material, combined with the soft PVC foam in the front and lightweight EPE foam in the back, ensured we had a comfortable experience throughout our water adventures.
This vest features four heavy-duty buckles and adjustable chest belts that provide a tight, secure fit, ensuring our safety while out on the water. Although, some of us had difficulty fastening the buckles initially but mastering them becomes easier with time. A unique feature of the vest is the concealed-type back straps design, which gives it a sleek and modern look. However, some might prefer a more traditional design.
Additionally, we appreciated the whistle included in the pocket inside the jacket as it proved helpful during water sports activities. The interior Velcro pocket is also great for storing valuables.
While the vest is available in six sizes and four colors, finding the ideal size might require some attention. It’s worth checking the sizing chart and considering customer reviews to ensure the best fit.
Overall, the Leader Accessories Adult Universal USCG Approved Vest is a trustworthy and comfortable personal flotation device to consider for your water sports endeavors. Offering both functionality and style, it is a safe investment for anyone seeking a reliable life vest.
Oceans 7 US Coast Guard Approved Life Jacket Vest
The Oceans 7 Life Jacket is a reliable choice for anyone in need of a personal flotation device, offering safety and comfort for a range of activities.
Pros
- US Coast Guard-approved for safety
- Adjustable straps and open-sided design for a comfortable fit
- Durable nylon construction and EPE flotation foam
Cons
- May not fit all sizes perfectly
- Limited to youth sizes only
- Packaging may vary
We recently tried out the Oceans 7 US Coast Guard Approved Life Jacket Vest and found it to be a secure and comfortable personal flotation device. Being US Coast Guard-approved, it meets the highest safety standards, giving us peace of mind when using it during our water activities.
The life jacket features three straps that are adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit, along with an open-sided design for additional ease of movement. We found the nylon construction to be durable, and the thick EPE flotation foam provided reliable buoyancy.
On the downside, we noticed that the sizing might not be perfect for all users, as it is explicitly designed for children weighing 30-50 pounds. Additionally, it is limited to youth sizes, so adults looking for a similar life jacket may have to look elsewhere.
Overall, the Oceans 7 Life Jacket is an excellent choice if you’re in search of a reliable and comfortable personal flotation device for your child. Its safety features, adjustable fit, and durable construction make it well-suited for swimming and general boating activities.
BLUESTORM CO2 Re-Arm Kit
This is a reliable re-arm kit for your Bluestorm Cirrus 26 automatic life jacket, providing essential backup for enhanced safety on the water.
Pros
- Compatible with Bluestorm Cirrus 26 PFD
- Comes with a 24 gram CO2 cylinder
- Easy-to-follow re-arming instructions included
Cons
- Not usable with other PFD brands
- Limited to 24 gram CO2 cartridges
- Potential availability issues
We recently re-armed our Bluestorm Cirrus 26 automatic life jacket with the BLUESTORM CO2 Re-Arm Kit and found it to be an essential addition to our boating gear. The compatibility with our Bluestorm Cirrus 26 PFD made the process simple and hassle-free, ensuring we always have a functional flotation device.
The 24 gram CO2 cylinder included in the kit effortlessly attached to our PFD with its 1/2″ thread, and the Halkey-Roberts V80040 Yellow Bobbin also included provided the necessary re-arming components. Additionally, the re-arming instructions included in the kit truly simplified the process, allowing us to get back to enjoying our time on the water without any complications.
While the BLUESTORM CO2 Re-Arm Kit is excellent for use with the Bluestorm Cirrus 26, it’s important to note that it may not be compatible with other PFD brands, so make sure to verify for compatibility before purchasing the kit. The kit is specifically designed for 24 gram CO2 cartridges, which may restrict usage with other types of cartridges. Bear in mind it may also experience periodic availability issues, so we recommend ordering replacement kits well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
In conclusion, we highly recommend the BLUESTORM CO2 Re-Arm Kit for those using the Bluestorm Cirrus 26 automatic life jacket. It offers compatibility, ease of use, and ensures your PFD remains functional for a safer boating experience.
Stohlquist Coaster Personal Flotation Device
A great pick for those seeking a comfortable and adjustable personal flotation device for long-distance paddling and touring.
Pros
- Lightweight and highly adjustable
- Thin Back design compatible with higher seat backs
- Built-in beverage holder and sunglasses sleeve
Cons
- May not fit larger individuals comfortably
- Limited pocket/storage space
- No specific attachment points for accessories
The Stohlquist Coaster Personal Flotation Device is a lightweight, comfortable, and highly adjustable option for touring and long-distance paddling. We appreciate its PE foam that offers ample flotation, while the Thin Back design works seamlessly with higher seat backs found in many kayaks.
Adjustability is one of the key features of the Coaster, with a cross-chest cinch harness, adjustable shoulders, and dual forward pulls that make it compatible with spray skirts. We also enjoyed the open sides, mesh shoulders, and interior mesh panels, which provided excellent ventilation on hot days.
In terms of convenience, the built-in beverage holder and neoprene sunglasses sleeve are welcome additions to keep you hydrated and protected from glare. However, we did find that storage options are somewhat limited, as there are no specific attachment points for accessories and the overall storage space is minimal.
Overall, the Stohlquist Coaster Personal Flotation Device is a solid choice for those prioritizing comfort, adjustability, and breathability during touring and long-distance paddling adventures. While it may not be ideal for larger individuals or those seeking more storage options, it offers excellent performance for its intended use.
RAVE Sports Adult Nylon Life Vest
This RAVE Sports Adult Nylon Life Vest is a reliable and comfortable option for adults engaging in water sports activities.
Pros
- Comfortable fit with large armholes
- Adjustable with 3 Sure-Lock buckles
- USCG approved as Type III PFD
Cons
- May not fit stockier individuals well
- A bit stiff initially
- Flotation material somewhat skimpy
As avid water sports enthusiasts, we recently took our RAVE Sports Adult Nylon Life Vest out for a spin during our kayaking trip. We instantly noticed the large armholes that provided comfort and ease of movement, which is crucial for paddling. The vest is easily adjustable with its 3 Sure-Lock buckles, ensuring a secure and snug fit for adults weighing more than 90 lbs. Plus, the United States Coast Guard approves this vest as a Type III PFD, giving us peace of mind when venturing into the water.
However, there were a few downsides that we experienced with this life vest. While it is adjustable in width, the flotation material can be a bit skimpy, making it less suitable for stockier individuals. In addition, the vest was somewhat stiff when we first used it, but we expect it to soften up over time.
Despite these minor drawbacks, we found the RAVE Sports Adult Nylon Life Vest to be a suitable option for our kayaking activities. Its comfort, adjustability, and safety approval make it a worthy personal flotation device for various water sports. However, if you have a stockier build, it may be worth considering alternative options to ensure maximum comfort and coverage.
Aqua LEISURE Oceans7 US Coast Guard-Approved Youth Life Jacket
The Aqua LEISURE Oceans7 Youth Life Jacket is a reliable, comfortable, and functional personal flotation device ideal for children aged 50-90 lbs.
Pros
- US Coast Guard-approved and meets high safety standards
- Comfortable open-sided design with adjustable straps
- Versatile for swimming and general boating activities
Cons
- May not fit perfectly for children weighing less than 45 pounds
- Lacks a bottom strap to prevent the vest from lifting above the shoulders
- Packaging may vary
We recently tried the Aqua LEISURE Oceans7 Youth Life Jacket for our children and found it to be a reliable and comfortable option for water activities. The US Coast Guard-approved design gives us confidence in its safety, while the open-sided and adjustable straps ensure a comfy and secure fit for our kids.
The durable nylon construction and thick EPE flotation foam make this personal flotation device suitable not just for swimming but also for general boating activities. Our children were able to wear the vests in the ocean and pool without any problems, and the cute design added a stylish touch to their swimming gear.
However, we noticed that for children weighing under 45 pounds, the fit might not be as snug as desired. A bottom strap would be helpful to prevent the vest from lifting above the shoulders in water. Also, it’s worth noting that the packaging may vary depending on when and where you purchase the product.
Overall, the Aqua LEISURE Oceans7 Youth Life Jacket offers a secure, comfortable, and functional solution for water activities. If your child falls within the weight range of 50-90 lbs, this vest serves as a reliable choice for ensuring their safety in and around water.
Seachoice Inflatable Personal Flotation Device
The Seachoice Inflatable PFD is a reliable option for those seeking on-demand flotation protection in a low-profile design.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable with adjustable waist strap
- Manual activation with a bright red pull handle
- Backup oral inflation tube included
Cons
- CO2 cartridge may not be included
- Not designed for water sports activities
- Limited adjustability on chest sizing (30 to 52 inches)
We recently had the opportunity to use the Seachoice Inflatable Personal Flotation Device (PFD) during a recreational boating trip. This PFD boasts a low-profile design that makes it comfortable to wear, without feeling bulky. The adjustable waist strap ensures a secure fit and the lightweight material adds to the overall comfort of the product.
One of the standout features of this PFD is its manual activation using a bright red pull handle, which offers on-demand inflation protection. Additionally, the backup oral inflation tube offers extra reassurance in case of any issues during an emergency situation.
However, it’s essential to note that the CO2 cartridge may not be included with the purchase. Some users have reported receiving their PFD without a cartridge, so make sure to check yours upon arrival. Furthermore, this PFD isn’t designed for water sports activities and has limited adjustability in chest sizing (30 to 52 inches).
Overall, the Seachoice Inflatable Personal Flotation Device offers a functional and low-profile solution for individuals looking for on-demand flotation protection during recreational boating, fishing, and other non-water sports activities. While it’s not perfect, its comfort, convenient activation mechanism, and additional safety features make it a worthy consideration.
Aqua USCG-Approved Life Jacket
This Aqua USCG-Approved Life Jacket provides safety and comfort for kids during water activities.
Pros
- US Coast Guard-approved design
- Comfortable open-side design with 3 adjustable straps
- Durable and versatile for various water activities
Cons
- Sizing may vary and require adjustments
- No under crotch strap, contrary to some photo representations
- Packaging may vary
Having recently used the Aqua USCG-Approved Life Jacket with our kids, we found it to be a great safety device for children weighing 50-90 pounds. The US Coast Guard-approved design ensures that it meets the highest safety standards, making us feel confident when our children are in the water.
The open-side design, combined with 3 adjustable straps, allows for a comfortable fit. However, we had to make some adjustments to ensure proper sizing, as it initially felt a bit loose on our children. Once adjusted, we found that the life jacket provided an excellent level of comfort and safety during swimming and boating activities.
We appreciate the durable nylon construction and thick EPE floatation foam, which makes this life jacket truly versatile for any water activity. The only downside we noticed was the absence of an under crotch strap, though some images of the product appear to show the strap. This could be a minor issue for some, so it’s essential to be aware of before purchasing.
In conclusion, the Aqua USCG-Approved Life Jacket offers a reliable and comfortable safety solution for children during various water activities. Although some sizing adjustments might be needed, and it lacks an under crotch strap, we still found it to be a great personal flotation device for our kids.
Gill US Coast Guard Approved PFD
Consider the Gill USCG Approved PFD for a comfortable fit and unrestricted freedom of movement during any water activity.
Pros
- Unrestricted freedom of movement
- Front or side zip entry options
- Wide range of sizes and adjustment points
Cons
- Slightly bulky
- May not be ideal for very slim individuals
- Limited color options
The Gill US Coast Guard Approved Front Zip Personal Flotation Device provides maximum comfort, allowing you to move freely during water sports, boating, or fishing activities. We found the front zip entry to be easy to use and practical for a quick fit.
Adjustments are a breeze, thanks to the ladder lock feature and adjustable shoulder lengths with neoprene padding. Our experience also showed that this PFD has a superb fit across various sizes, and the two front zippered pockets are convenient for storing essential gear.
However, we did notice that the Gill PFD can be slightly bulky compared to other PFDs on the market. While it may not be a significant drawback, very slim individuals might also find the adjustments to be less than perfect, although this might not apply to everyone. Additionally, the limited color options may be a deciding factor for those looking for more variety.
Overall, the Gill USCG Approved PFD offers a reliable and comfortable flotation device that combines safety and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for water enthusiasts of all experience levels.
Buying Guide
Key features
When choosing the best personal flotation device for your needs, consider the following essential features:
- Type of PFD: There are five types of PFDs (Type I to Type V), each designed for specific activities and conditions. Choose a PFD that fits the activities you plan to engage in.
- Buoyancy: Look for a PFD with the appropriate amount of buoyancy to support your body weight and ensure you stay afloat in the water.
- Fit and Comfort: It’s crucial to find a PFD that fits well and is comfortable to wear, as an ill-fitting device can be detrimental to your safety.
- Visibility: Bright colors and reflective materials can help to make you more visible in the water, which can be especially important during emergencies.
Sizing and fit
Proper fit is essential, as an ill-fitting PFD can hinder your movement or even slip off in the water. To ensure the best fit:
- Measure your chest size and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart.
- Try on the PFD and adjust the straps for a snug fit.
- Raise your arms above your head and ask someone to pull up on the PFD’s shoulders to ensure it stays in place.
Care and maintenance
Taking care of your PFD can prolong its lifespan and ensure it performs well when needed:
- Rinse with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and dirt.
- Avoid folding or compressing your PFD, as this can damage its buoyancy materials.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
By carefully considering these factors and following the guidelines outlined in this buying guide, we can make an informed decision and select the best personal flotation device for our needs.